Top Rated Cities for Retiree Happiness and Satisfaction
At its core, retirement is about finding a place where you can truly enjoy life. And luckily, the USA has no shortage of great spots to settle down. We’ve rounded up some of the best cities to retire to - places where people say they truly love the atmosphere and amenities. These cities made them happy, and perhaps they'll may you happy too.
Sarasota, Florida
Florida is a hugely popular retirement destination! It boats gorgeous beaches, warm winters, and a laid-back vibe that makes it a favorite for young people and retirees alike. There’s a strong arts scene, tons of golf if you’re into that, and plenty of top-notch healthcare nearby. Plus, Florida has no state income tax – a big plus.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a beautiful mountain town that people utterly adore. Retirees love the good weather, scenic views, and friendly community. There’s so much to do, as well - it’s the kind of place where you can hike in the morning, sip beer in the afternoon, and catch live music at night.
Scottsdale, Arizona
If sunshine’s your thing, Scottsdale’s got plenty of it. With over 300 sunny days a year, it’s perfect for active retirees who like to be outside. Golf, hiking, and even swimming are all part of the package. Summers are hot, but not too hot, and healthcare here is excellent too.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston has three Hs: History, hospitals, and heavenly food. But that’s not all. You’ve got beaches nearby, mild winters, and a walkable downtown full of things to do. It’s not the cheapest place unfortunately, but many people say it’s worth the high cost.
Boise, Idaho
Boise has been quietly climbing the list of great retirement cities. It’s clean, friendly, and surprisingly affordable. Outdoor lovers appreciate the hiking, biking, and nearby mountains, while the city itself offers arts, music, and festivals. So many people love it – why not go see for yourself what the fuss is about?
Fort Myers, Florida
Fort Myers is the archetypical Florida paradise - palm trees, white sand, and endless relaxation. Housing is relatively affordable, and there’s no state income tax. Plus, it’s not as touristy or traffic-y as other parts of the state, which means more peace and quiet for you.
Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville is one of those places people visit once and can’t stop talking about. Its downtown is cute, walkable, and filled with restaurants, parks, and boutiques. It’s close to the Blue Ridge Mountains, so outdoor adventures are always nearby. It’s also more affordable than bigger Southern cities.
Prescott, Arizona
In Prescott you get four mild seasons, lots of sunshine, and an easygoing pace. It’s a favorite among retirees who want Arizona’s climate without the chaos of the big city. Prescott offers a little something for everyone with hiking trails, golf courses, and a charming historic downtown.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster has a lot to offer retirees. It’s quiet, safe, and surrounded by peaceful countryside – just ask the Amish how good it is, in fact. The cost of living is reasonable, and healthcare access is excellent. Plus, there’s a growing food and arts scene. It’s not flashy, but so many people are happy here.
Bellingham, Washington
Bellingham is a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest. You’re nestled between Seattle and Vancouver with stunning views of the bay and mountains. It’s ideal for retirees who love the outdoors – hiking, boating, and birdwatching are all huge here. Its only downside is the rain, but some people love rain.
Savannah, Georgia
Retirees love Savannah for its walkable downtown, beautiful architecture, and chilled-out pace. It’s also surprisingly affordable for a city this pretty. Add in nearby beaches, a mild climate, and a vibrant arts scene, and it’s no wonder people report back that they’re living happy lives in Savannah.
St. George, Utah
St. George is a retiree favorite for good reason. It’s warm, dry, and surrounded by desert beauty. You can hike in Zion National Park or go golfing whenever the fancy takes you. Basically it’s a quieter, cheaper alternative to pricier desert cities, and its growing retirement community means you’ll be in good company.
Venice, Florida
No, not that Venice. But this one is very nice as well. It’s clean, friendly, and has a charming downtown with great shops and restaurants. Retirees have said it’s ideal if you want a small-town feel with all the Florida perks, and who doesn’t?
Bend, Oregon
This is another one that’s maybe a little more expensive than some people would like, but people who actually live here say it’s worth it. Bend offers a perfect mix of outdoor fun and laid-back living, and the climate is drier than you’d expect for Oregon.
Durham, North Carolina
Durham has really come into its own in recent years. It’s part of the Research Triangle, so it’s got great healthcare and lots of smart, interesting folks. The city has a thriving food scene, plenty of parks, and a lower cost of living than many other urban areas.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
If you love mountain views and low humidity, Colorado Springs might steal your heart. It’s more affordable than Denver but still has plenty to offer. For a start, it has hiking trails, stunning scenery, and a lively local culture – and for another thing, it has really good healthcare.
Fayetteville, Arkansas
This one’s more obscure than some of the others on this list, but retirees in the know love Fayetteville. It’s in the Ozarks, so the natural beauty is stunning, and the cost of living is low. There’s a lively arts scene thanks to the nearby university, and the town has a welcoming, very friendly feel.
Punta Gorda, Florida
Punta Gorda is perfect if you want a slow pace and scenic views without the typically high Florida price tag. It’s a small city with a big retirement population, friendly locals, and beautiful harbors. Boating, fishing, and golfing are all big here, to the joy of the retired residents.
Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City offers gorgeous lakes, warm summers, and a warm vibe as well. Retirees love the slower pace, the fresh air, and the local wineries. Winters can be slightly unpleasant, but if you don’t mind the cold, it’s a peaceful, scenic place to settle down into your twilight years.
The Villages, Florida
The Villages isn’t just a retirement community, it’s practically a retirement city. With over 100,000 residents, you’ll probably never be bored. It’s not for everyone - it can feel a bit like Disneyland for retirees - but if you want friends as you grow older, this is the place to be.
